Caring is a challenging task. Research shows that caring for a family member with dementia is associated with an increased risk of experiencing mental and physical disorders. It implies being under a process of chronic stress, capable of altering the psychosocial functioning of informal caregivers (IC). However, the data shows great individual variability in how ICs deal with this experience. Therefore, it is of great importance to identify factors (of the patient, the caregiver and in the patient-caregiver relationship) that may increase vulnerability or protection against the negative effects of care. The aim of this project is to examine and better understand individual variability in ICs' responses to the task of caregiving, in a sample of patients with dementia and their caregivers. We will characterize the psychosocial functioning of ICs and explore the role played by several variables (attachment, emotional regulation, coping, family functioning) in explaining individual differences. Through this project, it will be possible to identify the ICs at greatest risk, as well as gather knowledge to support the development of psychosocial interventions aimed at the needs of ICs.
